Adult students
I don't find it difficult to teach to adult students compared to younger students.. As a teacher you need to be prepared for both.
I also enjoy having adult students. They foster a "help to teach each other" atmosphere and add to the class with their varied experiences.
I have found In larger classes, a combination of older and younger students fosters good group learning and understanding. They tend to learn from each other, as does the instructor. It's important to let each student have some input in their definition of success and achievement and when they hear where others are coming from, it tends to help them with that definition. Adult learners tend to want to have their stories heard a little more than younger learners.
Cheryl,
Glad to hear you are enjoying your adult learners. Isn't great to work with someone that values what they are learning? I wish you continued success with your instructional efforts.
Gary
I much prefer to teach adults; I came from a middle & high school where the administrator's primary focus was placating parents and students and I was constanty being smacked down for expecting reasonable work, effort, and standards of behavior in my classes. The students learned quickly that there were no standards and if they didn't like my expectations they could circumvent them by crying to the administrator.
The adults I teach now realize that I want to help them achieve their goals of a college education, and it is hard work but I'm in their corner, helping them (on my own time, if necessary) learn what the state and the school have required. They don't get a pouty attitude, and they don't bring the drama to school. I'm no longer a babysitter.
Dorothea,
I am a big fan and user of study groups as well. They are a very effective method if they are formed and encouraged by the instructor and made a part of the regular class procedure. Thanks for sharing your success with such groups with us.
Gary
Sometimes it’s frustrating for adult students (40+) to grasp the concept of the materials (theory/Practical). Their processing factors are not the same as a student 20-30; thereby, requiring the instructor to speed more time on the subject matter. At times, they are discouraged because of this. I suggest the class form study groups. I find it to work well.
I ENJOY TEACHING ADULTS BECAUSE THEY ARE VERY FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED.
